After a season in which Durham Academy went 28-4 overall and much of the same talent returning, the Cavaliers once again have high aspirations this year.
Yes, when you talk about the team, 2022 MJ Rice steals the show for the most part along with a few other names.' But what coaches love to have is a point guard that gets everyone involved and can be that backbone for a team.
They may have that in 2022 6'1 Nik Graves heading into the season.' After playing in 32 games last year, averaging 4.8 points and 3.0 assists per game as a freshman, Graves is looking to have a breakout season for the Cavaliers.
He gave us a glimpse at the Phenom ENC 150 in Raleigh.
Graves displayed a great IQ for the game and was incredibly crafty with the ball in his hands, getting his teammates involved at all times.' That is exactly how he would describe his game and what he hopes to display this coming season for the Cavaliers.
'I think I'm a pass first point guard with a pretty good IQ and feel for the game,' he told Phenom Hoops.' 'I can also get a bucket for my team when it is needed.' I know I'm not the most athletic player on the court, so I have to outsmart them.
This year, I feel like I will show that I can be a vocal leader on the court and also show my offensive skills a little more.' I think our team is pretty young but we all work well together and compliment each other's styles.'
As Graves continues to focus on his strength and athleticism, he should become an even bigger threat on the offensive end of the floor.' But for right now, Graves has that ability to play a key role for Durham Academy this year.
If he displays that same execution and ability that he did at the Phenom ENC 150, Graves certainly could be a guard that moves up the rankings quickly.' However, there is no doubt now that he has the ability to be the backbone for a team and one that coaches love to have on the floor.
What Was Said by Phenom Hoops:
'Graves was incredibly crafty with the ball in his hands, and with that craft came extreme confidence. The lefty, played at a great pace, showcasing an excellent first step, and he won every point guard matchup he had, on the day. Graves has a good positional size already and is the son of a coach, which you can tell. With the ball on a string, dead-eye passing ability and touch extending beyond three, as he continues to get stronger, look for his name and ranking to continue to rise.' – Jamie Shaw
'We're talking about a high IQ, crafty and fundamentally sound point guard that plays with poise and maturity. Simply stated, Graves understands and thinks the game and is a true floor general and coach on the court. That being said, Graves is also a reliable scorer and has a tremendous balance of scoring and getting his teammates involved in the game. Graves averaged 10.2 PPG and was one of the better all-around players for the day. Look for a huge breakout season for the sophomore.' – Rick Lewis at Phenom ENC 150